This is an autobiography that tells the story of Akiko Hayashi, the author as she was in her third year of high school at the beginning of the story. Through her friend Futami, Akiko starts going to an art class led by Kenzou Hidaka, an intimidating teacher who spends much of his time yelling at his students and keeping them focused on drawing with the use of a bamboo sword. Akiko is initially confused by the behavior of the teacher and her fellow students in the class, but she keeps going regardless, eventually becoming the mangaka she is today. [Official English](http://www.sevenseasentertainment.com/series/blank-canvas-my-so-called-artists-journey-kakukaku-shikajika/) --- - **Won the 8th Manga Taisho in 2015** - **Won the 19th Japan Media Arts Festival Grand Prize for Manga**